Soulpepper Theatre Company

The website of the Soulpepper Theatre Company explains that "is an artist-run, classical repertory theatre company dedicated to a three-tiered mandate:

• "To present vital Canadian interpretations of history's great plays.
• "To provide the finest classical training to a new generation of actors, designers, and directors.
• "To inspire and enlighten Canadian youth through outreach and internship programs."

The company was formed in 1998 by a group of prominent and seasoned Canadian actors who were performing at Stratford, Ontario and who enjoyed working together. They wanted to continue their creative synergy performing plays which rarely make it to the Canadian stage, including (this season) classics like Chekhov's Uncle Vanya. The egalitarian philosophy of the group is obvious from their programs, which list all members of a production, from stage crew to star, in alphabetical order, the same font used for all. Though there have been rumours that the company is in financial trouble, artistic director Albert Schultz recently announced that revenues are improving, and many hope that they can continue to deliver the virtuoso performances and first-class internships for which they have quickly, and justly, become acclaimed.

For more information on Soulpepper, visit
http://www.soulpeppertheatre.com/soulhome.html